The “Strawberry Full Moon” of 2025 made a gentle appearance in the night sky around the world on Wednesday, June 11th. The full moon in June is also known as the “Strawberry Moon,” and this year’s Strawberry Moon was not only romantic but also very special.
The peak time of this full moon was at 3:44 a.m. Eastern Time on the 11th (3:44 p.m. Beijing Time). This is the last full moon before the summer solstice on June 21, marking the beginning of astronomical summer in the Northern Hemisphere and winter in the Southern Hemisphere.
Although the name “Strawberry Moon” may sound dreamy and sweet, suggesting the moon would glow with a pink hue, in reality, it has no direct connection to color. The term “Strawberry Moon” comes from traditional naming by Native Americans – June is the season for strawberry harvesting, hence the full moon at this time is called the “Strawberry Moon,” symbolizing harvest, completeness, and hope.
In Europe, it is also known as the “Rose Moon” and “Honey Moon,” among other names, all carrying a strong romantic atmosphere, making it the softest glow in the summer night sky.
What makes this year’s Strawberry Moon even more special is its coincidence with the rare astronomical phenomenon known as the “Major Lunar Standstill,” indicating that the moon has reached its most extreme position in the sky. This only occurs once every 18.6 years. In other words, this full moon is the lowest in the Northern Hemisphere in the past 18.6 years. Coupled with the “Moon Illusion effect,” people perceive the moon as larger, closer, and brighter. The next time to see such a low-hanging full moon will be in 2043.
Let’s now enjoy the round and bright “Strawberry Moon” captured by photographers in various locations around the globe.